In this summer’s heat, Foot Locker's epic 'Summer Jam' jumped onto the scene, sparking a basketball frenzy that echoed across Europe. The first of its kind pan-European hoop showdown brought together communities from six cities: Milan, Barcelona, Rotterdam, London, Paris, and latest newcomer, Berlin. With the sun riding high, so did the excitement - with seven events taking place across the summer and climaxing in the heart of London, for the finals, on August 19^th.

But let's hit rewind for a sec. 

On August 12^th, the spotlight illuminated on the Berlin Court Launch – Foot Locker’s latest basketball court, presented in collaboration with the NBA which opened at Hangar 1 – a Berlin-based open space for sport, art and culture. Foot Locker teamed up with local basketball team Freibeuter to welcomed over 250 guests from the basketball community onto the court to make it more than just a place to play this summer, but the place to be. All players also received a fresh pair of Puma performance basketball sneakers and their own kits to play in, courtesy of Puma themselves. 

Switching gears to London for the finals, where 114 fierce players from six powerhouse cities battled it out for glory to become the reigning kings and queens of the court.  Set against the backdrop of Foot Locker’s Clapham court, over 500 fans joined throughout the day and added to the whirlwind of high energy. Although, it wasn’t just players showing off their skills on the court, the crowd was also encouraged try out their baller skills with the adidas 3-point shoot-out challenge, hosted by the talented @Dezereels. The aim of the game? To bag the most hoops and win a pair of sneakers.

In the heart-racing 5v5 matches - the male champions, Team Berlin, orchestrated a basketball symphony of teamwork and strategy that had jaws dropping. Over on the women's side, Team Rotterdam reigned supreme, showcasing their court dominance, and securing victory for the girls.

Our brand partners not only elevated the excitement but ensured that everyone was decked out for the occasion. Players sported custom Summer Jam Jordan kits and a full adidas off-court look, as well as their own personalised Puma printed t-shirt. New Era also hosted an in-store cap customisation, which added just that extra touch. Beyond the tournament, the day embodied the very essence of what Summer Jam is all about – the community.

As the sun set, the after-party only cranked up the heat. Mama’s Jerk BBQ served up a feast for the eyes, the belly, and the good vibes; and not to mention the New Balance stage coming to life at the evening after-party, hosting sick performances by the Morning After Crew, BB, Tay Jordan, and headliner, Sainté. 

But just like that, as the curtains falls on Summer Jam 2023, it leaves us with a trail of high-fives, low passes, and a ridiculous amount of fun from all the players throughout Europe. From six buzzing cities to one big Foot Locker family, this year's Summer Jam was one to remember. 

It's like that perfect buzzer beater – it stays with you. So, here's to the jams, the slams, the laughs, and the love. Summer Jam 2023 might be over, but the feeling? That's forever. 

Until the next time we hit the court, let's keep the good times rolling.

 

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